Reader’s Question:

What does a beginner driver need to know about Massachusetts auto insurance?

Tara

Boston, MA

Massachusetts is one of several American states that have adopted the no-fault policy. In the unfortunate event of a car accident, the motorists involved can immediately be recompensed through their own auto insurance policy. This type of auto insurance policy, known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), is the foremost requirement mandated by the state for its resident motorists. By using the no-fault policy, the state has cut back on the number of litigations that result from car accidents every year. Since PIP is not dependent on who will be declared responsible for causing the accident, motorists no longer have to wait for the resolution of tedious legal proceedings in order to receive benefits. Such benefits can help in the expenses for much-needed medical treatment and can also recompense lost wages or even funeral expenses if the need arises. PIP can work well in tandem with one’s health insurance. In fact, most motorists who already have a good health insurance policy purchase only the minimum coverage of PIP.

The no-fault policy, however, accommodates certain exceptions. There are cases when the injuries caused by a car accident can be quite severe. The resulting medical expenses can turn out to be high enough to exceed auto insurance coverage limits. When this occurs, the injured party can file a lawsuit against the one responsible for the accident, to sue him or her for injuries and damages. Thus, liability coverage is also a requirement in this state. The minimum limits for liability in Massachusetts are $20,000 for the medical expenses of a single driver, $40,000 for the combined medical expenses of all occupants in the vehicle (if there was more than one), and $5,000 for property damage.